Eskasoni residents return home but more flooding is possible

ESKASONI — As some 40 Eskasoni residents began returning home Monday after flooding forced their evacuation last week there remains the threat of another evacuation as temperatures are expected to rise later this week.

News Update

George Paul, who handles communications for the First Nation community, said Monday residents from six homes were ordered out March 13 as water from a nearby river began expanding its banks as a result of a massive ice block coming in from the Bras d'Or Lake.

The lake area has frozen for the first time in recent memory which has resulted in ice being pushed back into the river.

Paul said band officials are concerned that warmer temperatures will present another threat for residents.

Monday's temperature was recorded at -7 C with a wind chill of -15 C. Come Friday, the mercury is expected to rise to 7 C.

"The fear for the rest of week is the temperature," said Paul, adding damages at present are considered minimal but all that could change within 24 hours if the ice melts.

As a precaution, the oil tanks for nearby homes have been emptied in the event the river should again spill its banks. The area affected is known in the community as the Qum’sipuk area and is located just past the fisheries office.

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada is covering the expense of the evacuation.

Meanwhile, federal MP Mark Eyking said Monday he expects to be in Eskasoni Tuesday to tour the troubled area.